Olympic cross-country skier, Kris Freeman, will travel across the U.S. this summer to share his story of perseverance and triumph as part of Lily Camp Care Package program. Mr. Freeman will be speaking and interacting with the campers at TCDC on July 12. He will discuss how Type 1 diabetes did not stop him from achieving his dream.
Mr. Freeman was diagnosed with Type 1 at the age of 19 and thought he would never compete at the Olympic level. In February 2014, he competed in his fourth Winter Olympics. He has been a Lily Diabetes ambassador for the past 13 years and on camp tours for 11 years. He will discuss with the children his dreams and how anyone can achieve their dreams even when obstacles appear. Then the campers and staff will participate in activities along with Mr. Freeman before he leaves.
Lily has supported camp for children with diabetes for over 15 years with donations of nearly $26 million in insulin, supplies, scholarships, and camper and caregiver materials.
TCDC has been offering a summer camp experience for Type 1 children ages 9-15 for 63 years at Double G Ranch in Soddy-Daisy. For many campers this is the first opportunity in gaining confidence and in learning that they aren’t alone in dealing with this chronic disease. Campers learn self-management skills as well as finding camaraderie in shared experiences with fellow campers. Visit tncdc.org for more information.